The Year in Buff: Part I

It’s been an incredible year for Broadway and beyond. The Broadway Blog has had the good fortune to cross paths with 12 of the most dedicated, handsome, and warm-hearted performers in the business for our monthly Theater Buff column. We’re looking back over the next two days to offer you snippets of each, along with a few updates so you can check them out in their current roles/shows. We didn’t need another reason to love the theater, but these 12 guys sure help!

Albert appeared in the short-livedHoneymoon in Vegas. Our favorite Q&A…How do you channel your inner Elvis?Hmm. My Elvis reminds me of The Dynamo outfits in Mamma Mia. I’ve done that show for so long I can’t help but compare the boots and spandex. But I channel the moment I get to take those heels off after the curtain call. LOL!

Update:In addition to performing, Albert is a Team Beachbody coach. Click here for details.

When we interviewed Andrew, he was appearing at The Public in Hamilton — we all know how that went! He’s now in one of Broadway’s biggest hits. Our favorite Q&A…If I were going to run for political office, my slogan would be:You’d never find me running for office, but my character, Shermika Ramsey from The Sketch Betch would say “Let A Bitch Know.” She has a zero tolerance policy regarding bad oral hygiene.

April 2015 – Michael CusumanoMichael appeared in the gorgeous production of An American in Paris. Our favorite Q&A…What would you do on your ultimate Paris dream date?If I was to imagine my ultimate Paris dream date I would chose the holiday time of year because I fell in love with the outdoor Christmas market. We would hold hands browsing the cute shops, while of course sipping a mulled wine. Get the grand!

Then take a ride on the Ferris wheel, and finish the night being cheesy by going to the top of the Eiffel Tower— standing on top of the world and getting lost in each other’s eyes. (I’m a dreamer if you couldn’t tell!)

Update: Michael occasionally teaches at Ballet Arts City Center, so dig out your dance belt and get to class!

Julius just finished his run in Broadway’s Finding Neverland. Our favorite Q&A…If you could fly like Peter Pan, where would your first destination be and why?Since Peter Pan originated in London, I think Big Ben would be my first stop. I could literally hang out on the hands of the clock as it’s in motion—taking in that view and feel of the city. I have a huge obsession with that town, let alone that monument, and still have never been. It’d be a dream to visit—flying or not!

(Photo provided by Jimi Stanton.)

June 2015 – Jimi StantonWe went Off Broadway for the month of June and discovered Jimi, making his New York debut in Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, America, Kuwait. Our favorite Q&A…

If I wasn’t a performer, I would be:I would like to be to a social worker, specifically with Veterans. Over the past few years I have volunteered for different veteran charities and events and I love the idea of trying to help the people who have served our country.

The Year in Buff: Part I was last modified: December 29th, 2015 by Matthew Wexler